If you’ve never been to Savannah, it’s best to start your adventure by hopping on a trolley tour. Sit back and enjoy the sights and scenery as knowledgeable trolley conductors guide you through the ins and outs of the city. You’ll get plenty of information on everything from historical homes to important squares to famous restaurants and so much more. For a discounted ticket on a hop on hop off tour, contact Old Savannah Tours, click the link below and use the promo code 'V5' for each person getting a ticket. www.oldsavannahtours.com
A glorious Savannah attraction to behold, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is an architectural masterpiece and the seat of the diocese of Savannah. In the French-Gothic style, pointed arches and magnificent details make a breathtaking backdrop to the gorgeous Savannah skyline. It was founded in 1700 by the first French Colonists and although the original early structures were destroyed by fire, the current cathedral dates back to 1874. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cathedral, enjoying the amazing Twin Spires and picturesque exterior as well as the Italian marble, Austrian stained glass and opulent Persian rugs of the interior.
In the 1700s, City Market was Savannah’s central marketplace for people to trade, shop for groceries and mingle with other community members. Today, life, charm and quirk are restored in City Market, and the lively marketplace is now one of Savannah’s most popular spots for restaurants, art galleries, shopping, live music and nightlife.
This majestic 30-acre park named for Georgia’s 33rd governor has it all, starting with the city’s most famous fountain—installed in 1858 and modeled after the fountains at the Place de la Concorde in Paris. In 1879, another Monument was introduced, the Confederate War Monument, located in the center of the park. Forsyth Park is a hub of social interaction where concerts, recreational sports, people watching, sunbathing, reading, relaxing can all be seen.
A 15-minute drive from the historic district will get you to one of the most beautiful estates in all of Savannah – the Wormsloe Historic Site. It is Georgia's Oldest Plantation, with gorgeous tunneling oaks and the site of the oldest standing structure in Savannah. Not only does the Wormsloe have trails branching out through the woods, but it also has historic ruins and paths that run along the edge of the forest, where you can get breathtaking views of the Isle of Hope. You can take a guided tour or adventure out on your own through the trails, which can extend up to 2.3 miles.
The Georgia State Railroad Museum is a National Historic Landmark and believed to be the largest and most complete Antebellum railroad repair facility still in existence in the world! With a fully operational turntable, you have the chance to explore historic railcars, experience the handcar, and go on guided tours. Be sure to check the Train Ride Schedule to experience a Site Tour by Train on a historic steam or diesel locomotive!
Though not Savannah’s oldest cemetery, Bonaventure Cemetery is certainly its most famous and hauntingly beautiful. Quintessentially Southern Gothic, it has captured the imaginations of writers, poets, naturalists, photographers, and filmmakers for more than 150 years. No visit to Savannah is complete without a visit to Bonaventure Cemetery---a place where death and beauty meet. The cemetery became famous when it was featured in the 1994 novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt, and in the subsequent movie, directed by Clint Eastwood, based on the book.
The first and only museum in the United States dedicated to the history of Prohibition. While here, guests will travel back in time to the early 1900s, as anti-alcohol rallies swept the nation and the “booze problem” was pushed to the fore-front of American politics. The true story of America’s struggle with the liquor question, the passing of the 18th Amendment, its impact on the nation, and the far-reaching consequences of the thirteen years of Prohibition all come to life within the walls of the American Prohibition Museum.
Did you know Savannah is the birthplace of the Girl Scouts? The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is offering guided tours exploring the fascinating life and world-changing legacy of Juliette Gordon Low, Founder of the Girl Scouts, through stories, art, and artifacts held in her childhood home.
Visit Chippewa square to see the site of the famous bench filming location from Forrest Gump. In the opening shot of the film, a feather floats high above the trees, then sweeps down past the Independent Presbyterian Church and makes its way toward Chippewa Square, eventually landing at the base of a park bench. Tom Hanks, who plays the role of Forrest, sits on this park bench telling his life story to anyone who will listen.
Savannah's historic homes are a big reason why people visit the city! Check out any of these historic homes to learn their fascinating history: Armstrong House, Mercer-Williams House, Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home, Andrew Low House, Green-Meldrim House, Sorrel-Weed House, Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, Davenport House, Olde Pink House Restaurant, Telfair Academy, Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum.
Old Fort Jackson is a must-see National Historic Landmark offering daily cannon firings and exciting interactive programs for adults, kids and families! Only minutes away from historic downtown Savannah, you can experience unique views of Savannah's riverfront and walk on the grounds of one of the oldest brick fortifications on the East Coast.
Feel the Atlantic Ocean breezes on Tybee Island, just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. Lounge on the beach, stroll down the pier and check out the ocean view from the pavilion, or explore the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. You also could visit the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, join an eco-kayak tour, nature walk or sunset cruise to explore this classic coastal town, its marshes and surrounding waters.
One of our personal favorite Savannah restaurants! Upscale, delicious, and haunted! Inventive Southern cuisine served in an elegant Colonial mansion & live music in the cellar tavern. Built in 1771 and riddled with stories of the English crown, secret meetings of the 13 colonies, vaults of money, war headquarters, and more, The Olde Pink House is worth a visit for the history alone!
Savannah’s World Famous Pirates House is located on one of the most historic spots in Georgia. It was first opened in 1753 as an inn for seafarers, and fast became rendezvous for blood-thirsty pirates and sailors from the Seven Seas. Since then, The Pirates House has been entertaining visitors with a bounty of delicious food, drink, and rousing good times!